A HYNDBURN firefighter died after appearing to lose control of his motorcycle on a road favoured by fellow riding enthusiasts.

David Standing, 44, of Russell Street, Accrington, died when his Suzuki hit a fence and landed on top of him.

He had been riding along Quernmore Brow, close to Lancaster, at 8.15pm on Tuesday when the accident happened.

The road he was travelling along is popular among motorcyclists.

Riders often time-trial their journey over the climb from Lancaster to Jubilee Tower, which takes them through Quernmore.

However, police said that there were no indications that the man had been speeding when the accident happened.

Officers believe the rider experienced problems as he negotiated a swooping left hand bend while travelling east close to Jubilee Tower.

He then lost control of his 1000cc bike, collided with a fence and was thrown into a field. His bike landed on top of him, pinning him to the ground.

A passer-by used resuscitation techniques until paramedics arrived and took over.

Despite their efforts, Mr Standing died at the scene.

Hyndburn station manager Ian Potter said: "He was a superb person and very good firefighter.

"He was well liked and this is a sad loss to the service. Each firefighter lost is like the death of a family member and this is a very sad time for us.

"He was a dedicated profes-sional who had been with Lancashire Fire Service for 16 years and knew his job inside and out."

Chief Fire Officer Peter Holland said: "Everyone involved with the service is deeply distressed and sends our deepest sympathies to David's family.

"He was an immensely valuable member of our team who has served the people of Lancashire so well over the years and he will be deeply missed."